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Frequency and Clinical Implications of Referrals to Heart Failure Among Patients with Peripartum Cardiomyopathy. J Card Fail 2024; 30:717-721. [PMID: 38158153 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2023.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but significant cause of new-onset heart failure (HF) during the peri- and post-partum periods. Advances in GDMT for HF with reduced ventricular function have led to substantial improvements in survival and quality of life, yet few studies examine the longitudinal care received by patients with PPCM. The aim of this research is to address this gap by retrospectively characterizing patients with PPCM across a multihospital health system and investigating the frequency of cardiology and HF specialty referrals. Understanding whether surveillance and medical management differ among patients referred to HF will help to underscore the importance of referring patients with PPCM to HF specialists for optimal care.
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SGLT2 Inhibitors, Functional Capacity, and Quality of Life in Patients With Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e245135. [PMID: 38573633 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.5135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance The associations of sodium glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) with reduction in mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with heart failure (HF) are well established. However, their association with improving functional capacity and quality of life (QOL) has been variably studied and less reported. Objective To provide evidence on the extent to which SGLT2is are associated with improvement on objective measures of functional capacity and QOL in patients living with HF. Data Sources The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for relevant articles on July 31, 2023. Study Selection Randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials reporting the effect of SGLT2i on functional outcomes of exercise capacity (peak oxygen consumption [peak VO2] or 6-minute walk distance [6MWD]) and/or QOL using validated questionnaires for patients with HF were included. Data Extraction and Synthesis Data were extracted by 2 authors following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines, and a meta-analysis using the restricted maximum likelihood random-effects model was conducted. Main Outcomes and Measures Outcomes of interest included changes in peak VO2, 6MWD, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire-12 total symptom score (KCCQ-TSS), clinical summary score (KCCQ-CSS), and overall summary score (KCCQ-OSS). Results In this meta-analysis of 17 studies, 23 523 patients (mean [range] age, 69 [60-75] years) were followed over a period ranging from 12 to 52 weeks. Four studies included peak VO2 as an outcome, 7 studies included 6MWD, and 10 studies reported KCCQ scores. Mean (SD) left ventricular ejection fraction was 43.5% (12.4%). Compared with controls, patients receiving SGLT2i treatment experienced significant increases in peak VO2 (mean difference [MD], 1.61 mL/kg/min; 95% CI, 0.59-2.63 mL/kg/min; P = .002) and 6MWD (MD, 13.09 m; 95% CI, 1.20-24.97 m; P = .03). SGLT2i use was associated with increased KCCQ-TSS (MD, 2.28 points; 95% CI, 1.74-2.81 points; P < .001), KCCQ-CSS (MD, 2.14 points; 95% CI, 1.53-2.74 points; P < .001), and KCCQ-OSS (MD, 1.90 points; 95% CI, 1.41-2.39 points; P < .001) scores. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression demonstrated almost all improvements were consistent across ejection fraction, sex, and the presence of diabetes. Conclusions and Relevance These findings suggest that in addition to known clinical associations with mortality and hospitalization outcomes, SGLT2i use is associated with improvement in outcomes of interest to patients' everyday lives as measured by objective assessments of maximal exercise capacity and validated QOL questionnaires, regardless of sex or ejection fraction.
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The Need for Speed: Modulating Continuous-Flow LVAD Responsiveness During Exercise for Patients With Heart Failure. JACC. HEART FAILURE 2024; 12:130-133. [PMID: 37768245 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2023.07.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
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Chest-Wall Adipose Tissue Excisional Biopsy During Pacemaker or Defibrillator Implantation: New Technique to Diagnose Amyloidosis. J Am Coll Cardiol 2022; 80:93-94. [PMID: 35772920 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2022.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Safety and effects of SGLT-2 inhibitor use among LVAD patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2022; 18:100154. [PMID: 38559421 PMCID: PMC10978353 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2022.100154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
SGLT-2 inhibitors have been shown to confer reduced risk of adverse cardiovascular events in patients with heart failure, and have also been studied preliminarily among heart transplant patients, with overall positive findings. Use of SGLT-2 inhibitors among patients with durable mechanical circulatory support has not been studied. Here we present our results from a combined retrospective cohort of LVAD patients on SGLT-2 inhibitors at two major academic centers, which showed a good safety profile but prompted questions for further investigation. We advocate for further research into the safety and impact of SGLT-2 inhibitors among LVAD patients.
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Reply: CPET for Long COVID-19. JACC. HEART FAILURE 2022; 10:215. [PMID: 35241251 PMCID: PMC8884261 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Frailty Measures of Patient-reported Activity and Fatigue May Predict 1-year Outcomes in Ambulatory Advanced Heart Failure: A Report From the REVIVAL Registry. J Card Fail 2021; 28:765-774. [PMID: 34961663 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2021.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Revised: 10/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Fried Frailty Phenotype predicts adverse outcomes in geriatric populations, but has not been well-studied in advanced heart failure (HF). The Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for Ventricular Assist Devices (VADs) in Ambulatory Life (REVIVAL) study prospectively collected frailty measures in patients with advanced HF to determine relevant assessments and their impact on clinical outcomes. METHODS AND RESULTS HF-Fried Frailty was defined by 5 baseline components (1 point each): (1) weakness: hand grip strength less than 25% of body weight; (2) slowness based on time to walk 15 feet; (3) weight loss of more than 10 lbs in the past year; (4) inactivity; and (5) exhaustion, both assessed by the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. A score of 0 or 1 was deemed nonfrail, 2 prefrail, and 3 or greater was considered frail. The primary composite outcome was durable mechanical circulatory support implantation, cardiac transplant or death at 1 year. Event-free survival for each group was determined by the Kaplan-Meier method and the hazard of prefrailty and frailty were compared with nonfrailty with proportional hazards modeling. Among 345 patients with all 5 frailty domains assessed, frailty was present in 17%, prefrailty in 40%, and 43% were nonfrail, with 67% (n = 232) meeting the criteria based on inactivity and 54% (n = 186) for exhaustion. Frail patients had an increased risk of the primary composite outcome (unadjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.82, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.52-5.24; adjusted HR 3.41, 95% CI 1.79-6.52), as did prefrail patients (unadjusted HR 1.97, 95% CI 1.14-3.41; adjusted HR 2.11, 95% CI 1.21-3.66) compared with nonfrail patients, however, the predictive value of HF-Fried Frailty criteria was modest (Harrel's C-statistic of 0.603, P = .004). CONCLUSIONS The HF-Fried Frailty criteria had only modest predictive power in identifying ambulatory patients with advanced HF at high risk for durable mechanical circulatory support, transplant, or death within 1 year, driven primarily by assessments of inactivity and exhaustion. Focus on these patient-reported measures may better inform clinical trajectories in this population.
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Use of Cardiopulmonary Stress Testing for Patients With Unexplained Dyspnea Post-Coronavirus Disease. JACC. HEART FAILURE 2021; 9:927-937. [PMID: 34857177 PMCID: PMC8629098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2021.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objectives The authors used cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) to define unexplained dyspnea in patients with post-acute sequelae of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (PASC). We assessed participants for criteria to diagnose myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Background Approximately 20% of patients who recover from coronavirus disease (COVID) remain symptomatic. This syndrome is named PASC. Its etiology is unclear. Dyspnea is a frequent symptom. Methods The authors performed CPET and symptom assessment for ME/CFS in 41 patients with PASC 8.9 ± 3.3 months after COVID. All patients had normal pulmonary function tests, chest X-ray, and chest computed tomography scans. Peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2), slope of minute ventilation to CO2 production (VE/VCO2 slope), and end tidal pressure of CO2 (PetCO2) were measured. Ventilatory patterns were reviewed with dysfunctional breathing defined as rapid erratic breathing. Results Eighteen men and 23 women (average age: 45 ± 13 years) were studied. Left ventricular ejection fraction was 59% ± 9%. Peak VO2 averaged 20.3 ± 7 mL/kg/min (77% ± 21% predicted VO2). VE/VCO2 slope was 30 ± 7. PetCO2 at rest was 33.5 ± 4.5 mm Hg. Twenty-four patients (58.5%) had a peak VO2 <80% predicted. All patients with peak VO2 <80% had a circulatory limitation to exercise. Fifteen of 17 patients with normal peak VO2 had ventilatory abnormalities including peak respiratory rate >55 (n = 3) or dysfunctional breathing (n = 12). For the whole cohort, 88% of patients (n = 36) had ventilatory abnormalities with dysfunctional breathing (n = 26), increased VE/VCO2 (n = 17), and/or hypocapnia PetCO2 <35 (n = 25). Nineteen patients (46%) met criteria for ME/CFS. Conclusions Circulatory impairment, abnormal ventilatory pattern, and ME/CFS are common in patients with PASC. The dysfunctional breathing, resting hypocapnia, and ME/CFS may contribute to symptoms. CPET is a valuable tool to assess these patients.
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Longitudinal profiling of circulating miRNA during cardiac allograft rejection: a proof-of-concept study. ESC Heart Fail 2021; 8:1840-1849. [PMID: 33713567 PMCID: PMC8120386 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Allograft rejection following heart transplantation (HTx) is a serious complication even in the era of modern immunosuppressive regimens and causes up to a third of early deaths after HTx. Allograft rejection is mediated by a cascade of immune mechanisms leading to acute cellular rejection (ACR) and/or antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). The gold standard for monitoring allograft rejection is invasive endomyocardial biopsy that exposes patients to complications. Little is known about the potential of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers to detect cardiac allograft rejection. We here present a systematic analysis of circulating miRNAs as biomarkers and predictors for allograft rejection after HTx using next-generation small RNA sequencing. METHODS AND RESULTS We used next-generation small RNA sequencing to investigate circulating miRNAs among HTx recipients (10 healthy controls, 10 heart failure patients, 13 ACR, and 10 AMR). MiRNA profiling was performed at different time points before, during, and after resolution of the rejection episode. We found three miRNAs with significantly increased serum levels in patients with biopsy-proven cardiac rejection when compared with patients without rejection: hsa-miR-139-5p, hsa-miR-151a-5p, and hsa-miR-186-5p. We identified miRNAs that may serve as potential predictors for the subsequent development of ACR: hsa-miR-29c-3p (ACR) and hsa-miR-486-5p (AMR). Overall, hsa-miR-486-5p was most strongly associated with acute rejection episodes. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring cardiac allograft rejection using circulating miRNAs might represent an alternative strategy to invasive endomyocardial biopsy.
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Estimated Health Care Utilization and Expenditures in Individuals With Heart Failure From the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey. Circ Heart Fail 2021; 14:e007763. [PMID: 33980040 DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.120.007763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart failure (HF) constitutes a growing burden for public health and the US health care system. While the prevalence of HF is increasing, differences in health care utilization and expenditures within various sociodemographic groups remain poorly defined. METHODS We used the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey to assess annual health care utilization and expenditures from 2012 to 2017. Health care utilization was based on the annual frequency of various health care encounters. Annual total and out-of-pocket expenditures were evaluated for hospital inpatient stays, emergency room visits, outpatient visits, office-based medical provider visits, prescribed medicines, dental visits, home health aid visits, and other medical expenses. We performed univariable and multivariable regression analysis based on patient characteristics including sociodemographic and comorbidity variables. RESULTS Our results showed that total health care expenditures among patients with HF were $21 177 (95% CI, $18 819-$24 736) per year as compared with $5652 (95% CI, $5469-$5837) in those without HF (P<0.001). Total expenditures within the population with HF were primarily being driven by expenditures associated with inpatient hospitalizations. Increasing number of comorbid conditions was associated with significant increases in total health care expenditures. Older age, female sex, earlier study years, number of comorbidities, higher level of education, and increasing family income brackets independently raised out-of-pocket expenditures. CONCLUSIONS Our findings of increased health care utilization and expenditures based on sex, age, increasing number of comorbidities, wealthier income status, and increased education attainment level may be used for efforts aimed at better distributing health care resources to improve health outcomes in HF.
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Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to afflict millions of people worldwide. Patients with end-stage heart failure and left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) may be at risk for severe COVID-19 given a high prevalence of complex comorbidities and functional impaired immunity. The objective of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 in patients with end-stage heart failure and durable LVADs. Methods: The Trans-CoV-VAD registry is a multi-center registry of LVAD and cardiac transplant patients in the United States with confirmed COVID-19. Patient characteristics, exposure history, presentation, laboratory data, course, and clinical outcomes were collected by participating institutions and reviewed by a central data repository. This report represents the participation of the first 9 centers to report LVAD data into the registry. Results: A total of 40 patients were included in this cohort. The median age was 56 years (interquartile range, 46–68), 14 (35%) were women, and 21 (52%) were Black. Among the most common presenting symptoms were cough (41%), fever, and fatigue (both 38%). A total of 18% were asymptomatic at diagnosis. Only 43% of the patients reported either subjective or measured fever during the entire course of illness. Over half (60%) required hospitalization, and 8 patients (20%) died, often after lengthy hospitalizations. Conclusions: We present the largest case series of LVAD patients with COVID-19 to date. Understanding these characteristics is essential in an effort to improve the outcome of this complex patient population.
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Predictive Value of Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing Parameters in Ambulatory Advanced Heart Failure. JACC-HEART FAILURE 2021; 9:226-236. [PMID: 33549559 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to determine cardiopulmonary exercise (CPX) predictors of the combined outcome of durable mechanical circulatory support (MCS), transplantation, or death at 1 year among patients with ambulatory advanced heart failure (HF). BACKGROUND Optimal CPX predictors of outcomes in contemporary ambulatory advanced HF patients are unclear. METHODS REVIVAL (Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for ventricular assist devices [VADs] in Ambulatory Life) enrolled 400 systolic HF patients, INTERMACS (Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support) profiles 4-7. CPX was performed by 273 subjects 2 ± 1 months after study enrollment. Discriminative power of maximal (peak oxygen consumption [peak VO2]; VO2 pulse, circulatory power [CP]; peak systolic blood pressure • peak VO2], peak end-tidal pressure CO2 [PEtCO2], and peak Borg scale score) and submaximal CPX parameters (ventilatory efficiency [VE/VCO2 slope]; VO2 at anaerobic threshold [VO2AT]; and oxygen uptake efficiency slope [OUES]) to predict the composite outcome were assessed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression and Harrell's concordance statistic. RESULTS At 1 year, there were 39 events (6 transplants, 15 deaths, 18 MCS implantations). Peak VO2, VO2AT, OUES, peak PEtCO2, and CP were higher in the no-event group (all p < 0.001), whereas VE/VCO2 slope was lower (p < 0.0001); respiratory exchange ratio was not different. CP (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.89; p = 0.001), VE/VCO2 slope (HR: 1.05; p = 0.001), and peak Borg scale score (HR: 1.20; p = 0.005) were significant predictors on multivariate analysis (model C-statistic: 0.80). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with ambulatory advanced HF, the strongest maximal and submaximal CPX predictor of MCS implantation, transplantation, or death at 1 year were CP and VE/VCO2, respectively. The patient-reported measure of exercise effort (Borg scale score) contributed substantially to the prediction of outcomes, a surprising and novel finding that warrants further investigation. (Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for VADs in Ambulatory Life [REVIVAL]; NCT01369407).
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Strategies of Wait-listing for Heart Transplant vs Durable Mechanical Circulatory Support Alone for Patients With Advanced Heart Failure. JAMA Cardiol 2021; 5:652-659. [PMID: 32293643 DOI: 10.1001/jamacardio.2020.0631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Importance Given the shortage of donor hearts and improvement in outcomes with left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy, a relevant but, to date, unanswered question is whether select patients with advanced heart failure should receive LVAD destination therapy as an alternative to heart transplant. Objective To determine whether a strategy of LVAD destination therapy is associated with similar survival benefit as wait-listing for heart transplant with or without LVAD therapy among patients with advanced heart failure. Design, Setting, and Participants This retrospective propensity-matched cohort analysis used data on heart transplants from the United Network for Organ Sharing registry and LVAD implants from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2014. The matched LVAD destination therapy cohort included 3411 patients. Data analysis for this study was conducted from December 22, 2017, to May 24, 2019. Main Outcomes and Measures Survival at 5 years was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models. Results In total, 8281 patients had albumin level, creatinine level, and BMI data recorded and were included in the analysis. Despite propensity score matching, the 3411 patients receiving LVAD destination therapy still tended to be slightly older than the 3411 patients wait-listed for heart transplant (64.0 years [interquartile range, 55.0-70.0 years] vs 60.0 [interquartile range, 54.0-65.0 years]; P < .001), but there was no significant difference in sex (2701 men [79.2%] vs 2648 men [77.6%]; P = .13). After propensity score matching for age, sex, body mass index, renal function, and albumin level, 3411 patients were wait-listed for heart transplant. This included 1607 patients with bridge to transplant LVAD therapy and 1804 patients without LVAD. The strategy of wait-listing for heart transplant was associated with better 5-year survival than LVAD destination therapy (risk ratio, 0.42; 95% CI, 0.38-0.46) after matching and adjusting for key clinical factors. This survival advantage was associated with heart transplant (adjusted risk ratio for time-dependent transplant status, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.24-0.32). Conclusions and Relevance The present analysis suggests that heart transplant with or without bridge to transplant LVAD therapy was associated with superior 5-year survival compared with LVAD destination therapy among patients matched on several relevant clinical factors. Continued improvement in LVAD technology, along with prospective comparative research, appears to be needed to amend this strategy.
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Early use of remote dielectric sensing after hospitalization to reduce heart failure readmissions. ESC Heart Fail 2020; 8:1047-1054. [PMID: 33336881 PMCID: PMC8006703 DOI: 10.1002/ehf2.13026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Readmission after hospitalization for acute decompensated heart failure (HF) remains a major public health problem. Use of remote dielectric sensing (ReDS) to measure lung water volume allows for an objective assessment of volume status and may guide medical optimization for HF. We hypothesized that the use of ReDS would lower 30 day readmission in patients referred to rapid follow‐up (RFU) clinic after HF discharge. Methods and results We conducted a retrospective analysis of the use of ReDS for patients scheduled for RFU within 10 days post‐discharge for HF at Mount Sinai Hospital between 1 July 2017 and 31 July 2018. Diuretics were adjusted using a pre‐specified algorithm. The association between use of ReDS and 30 day readmission was evaluated. A total of 220 patients were included. Mean age was 62.9 ± 14.7 years, and 36.4% were female. ReDS was performed in 80 (36.4%) and led to medication adjustment in 52 (65%). Use of ReDS was associated with a lower rate of 30 day cardiovascular readmission [2.6% vs. 11.8%, hazard ratio (HR): 0.21; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.05–0.89; P = 0.04] and a trend towards lower all‐cause readmission (6.5% vs. 14.1%, HR: 0.43; 95% CI: 0.16–1.15; P = 0.09) as compared with patients without a ReDS assessment. Conclusions ReDS‐guided HF therapy during RFU after HF hospitalization may be associated with lower risk of 30 day readmission.
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Reply. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 76:2800-2801. [PMID: 33272379 PMCID: PMC7834733 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2020.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Recombinant herpes zoster vaccine after heart transplantation: A single-center experience. J Heart Lung Transplant 2020; 39:1501-1503. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2020.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 08/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic exposes unexpected cardiovascular vulnerabilities and the need to improve cardiometabolic health. Four cardiometabolic drivers-abnormal adiposity, dysglycemia, dyslipidemia, and hypertension-are examined in the context of COVID-19. Specific recommendations are provided for lifestyle change, despite social distancing restrictions, and pharmacotherapy, particularly for those with diabetes. Inpatient recommendations emphasize diligent and exclusive use of insulin to avert hyperglycemia in the face of hypercytokinemia and potential islet cell injury. Continuation of statins is advised, but initiating statin therapy to treat COVID-19 is as yet unsubstantiated by the evidence. The central role of the renin-angiotensin system is discussed. Research, knowledge, and practice gaps are analyzed with the intent to motivate prompt action. An emerging model of COVID-related cardiometabolic syndrome encompassing events before, during the acute phase, and subsequently in the chronic phase is presented to guide preventive measures and improve overall cardiometabolic health so future viral pandemics confer less threat.
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Prevalence and Impact of Myocardial Injury in Patients Hospitalized With COVID-19 Infection. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 76:533-546. [PMID: 32517963 PMCID: PMC7279721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2020.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 509] [Impact Index Per Article: 127.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The degree of myocardial injury, as reflected by troponin elevation, and associated outcomes among U.S. hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) are unknown. OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to describe the degree of myocardial injury and associated outcomes in a large hospitalized cohort with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. METHODS Patients with COVID-19 admitted to 1 of 5 Mount Sinai Health System hospitals in New York City between February 27, 2020, and April 12, 2020, with troponin-I (normal value <0.03 ng/ml) measured within 24 h of admission were included (n = 2,736). Demographics, medical histories, admission laboratory results, and outcomes were captured from the hospitals' electronic health records. RESULTS The median age was 66.4 years, with 59.6% men. Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure, was more prevalent in patients with higher troponin concentrations, as were hypertension and diabetes. A total of 506 (18.5%) patients died during hospitalization. In all, 985 (36%) patients had elevated troponin concentrations. After adjusting for disease severity and relevant clinical factors, even small amounts of myocardial injury (e.g., troponin I >0.03 to 0.09 ng/ml; n = 455; 16.6%) were significantly associated with death (adjusted hazard ratio: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.37 to 2.24; p < 0.001) while greater amounts (e.g., troponin I >0.09 ng/dl; n = 530; 19.4%) were significantly associated with higher risk (adjusted HR: 3.03; 95% CI: 2.42 to 3.80; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Myocardial injury is prevalent among patients hospitalized with COVID-19; however, troponin concentrations were generally present at low levels. Patients with CVD are more likely to have myocardial injury than patients without CVD. Troponin elevation among patients hospitalized with COVID-19 is associated with higher risk of mortality.
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The Imperfect Cytokine Storm: Severe COVID-19 With ARDS in a Patient on Durable LVAD Support. JACC Case Rep 2020; 2:1315-1320. [PMID: 32292915 PMCID: PMC7142699 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccas.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 04/30/2023]
Abstract
As health systems worldwide grapple with the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, patients with durable LVAD support represent a unique population at risk for the disease. This paper outlines the case of such a patient who developed COVID-19 complicated by a "cytokine storm" with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome and myocardial injury and describes the challenges that arose during management.
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Prevalence and Impact of Myocardial Injury in Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19 Infection. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2020. [PMID: 32511658 DOI: 10.1101/2020.04.20.20072702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The degree of myocardial injury, reflected by troponin elevation, and associated outcomes among hospitalized patients with Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) in the US are unknown. OBJECTIVES To describe the degree of myocardial injury and associated outcomes in a large hospitalized cohort with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. METHODS Patients with COVID-19 admitted to one of five Mount Sinai Health System hospitals in New York City between February 27th and April 12th, 2020 with troponin-I (normal value <0.03ng/mL) measured within 24 hours of admission were included (n=2,736). Demographics, medical history, admission labs, and outcomes were captured from the hospital EHR. RESULTS The median age was 66.4 years, with 59.6% men. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) including coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure, was more prevalent in patients with higher troponin concentrations, as were hypertension and diabetes. A total of 506 (18.5%) patients died during hospitalization. Even small amounts of myocardial injury (e.g. troponin I 0.03-0.09ng/mL, n=455, 16.6%) were associated with death (adjusted HR: 1.77, 95% CI 1.39-2.26; P<0.001) while greater amounts (e.g. troponin I>0.09 ng/dL, n=530, 19.4%) were associated with more pronounced risk (adjusted HR 3.23, 95% CI 2.59-4.02). CONCLUSIONS Myocardial injury is prevalent among patients hospitalized with COVID-19, and is associated with higher risk of mortality. Patients with CVD are more likely to have myocardial injury than patients without CVD. Troponin elevation likely reflects non-ischemic or secondary myocardial injury.
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Pacemaker Implantation After Mitral Valve Surgery With Atrial Fibrillation Ablation. J Am Coll Cardiol 2020; 73:2427-2435. [PMID: 31097163 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacc.2019.02.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation is higher following mitral valve surgery (MVS) with ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF) compared with MVS alone. OBJECTIVES This study identified risk factors and outcomes associated with PPM implantation in a randomized trial that evaluated ablation for AF in patients who underwent MVS. METHODS A total of 243 patients with AF and without previous PPM placement were randomly assigned to MVS alone (n = 117) or MVS + ablation (n = 126). Patients in the ablation group were further randomized to pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) (n = 62) or the biatrial maze procedure (n = 64). Using competing risk models, this study examined the association among PPM and baseline and operative risk factors, and the effect of PPM on time to discharge, readmissions, and 1-year mortality. RESULTS Thirty-five patients received a PPM within the first year (14.4%), 29 (83%) underwent implantation during the index hospitalization. The frequency of PPM implantation was 7.7% in patients randomized to MVS alone, 16.1% in MVS + PVI, and 25% in MVS + biatrial maze. The indications for PPM were similar among patients who underwent MVS with and without ablation. Ablation, multivalve surgery, and New York Heart Association functional (NYHA) functional class III/IV were independent risk factors for PPM implantation. Length of stay post-surgery was longer in patients who received PPMs, but it was not significant when adjusted for randomization assignment (MVS vs. ablation) and age (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.81; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.61 to 1.08; p = 0.14). PPM implantation did not increase 30-day readmission rate (HR: 1.43; 95% CI: 0.50 to 4.05; p = 0.50). The need for PPM was associated with a higher risk of 1-year mortality (HR: 3.21; 95% CI: 1.01 to 10.17; p = 0.05) after adjustment for randomization assignment, age, and NYHA functional class. CONCLUSIONS AF ablation, multivalve surgery, and NYHA functional class III/IV were associated with an increased risk for permanent pacing. PPM implantation following MVS was associated with a significant increase in 1-year mortality. (Surgical Ablation Versus No Surgical Ablation for Patients With Atrial Fibrillation Undergoing Mitral Valve Surgery; NCT00903370).
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Hemodynamic Response to Exercise in Patients Supported by Continuous Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices. JACC-HEART FAILURE 2020; 8:291-301. [PMID: 32035893 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2019.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to characterize the hemodynamic response to exercise in LVAD-supported patients and identify parameters most strongly associated with peak oxygen consumption (VO2). BACKGROUND Despite improved survival for heart failure patients afforded by continuous flow left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), peak exercise capacity remains impaired. Mechanisms underlying this reduced functional capacity remain poorly understood. METHODS Patients referred for post-VAD hemodynamic optimization from December 2017 through June 2019 were enrolled. Swan Ganz catheters were inserted and upright incremental bicycle ergometry with respiratory gas analysis was performed. Hemodynamic measurements, mixed venous saturation, and arterial blood pressure were recorded every 3 min during exercise. Linear correlations were performed between peak VO2 (ml/min) and peak Fick cardiac output (CO), peak device flow, the assumed intrinsic CO derived as Fick CO-device flow, peak pressure differential across the LVAD (mean arterial pressure-pulmonary capillary wedge pressure), peak pressure differential across right ventricle (mean pulmonary artery pressure - right atrial pressure) and systemic vascular resistance. RESULTS Forty-five patients supported by axial flow pumps (n = 12) and centrifugal flow pumps (n = 33) were studied. There were 34 men and 11 women. Age averaged 60 ± 10 years. Peak VO2 averaged 10.6 ± 3.1 ml/kg/min. Fick CO had the greatest correlation with peak VO2 with r = 0.73 (p < 0.0001) followed by intrinsic CO (r = 0.67; p < 0.0001). Multivariate model that best predicted peak VO2 included Fick CO and peak arterial venous oxygen (AVO2) difference. CONCLUSIONS LVAD supported patients have severely impaired peak exercise capacity. The peak Fick cardiac output was the best correlate of peak exercise performance.
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Continuous-flow mechanical circulatory support is not associated with early graft failure: An analysis of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation registry. Clin Transplant 2019; 33:e13752. [PMID: 31693247 DOI: 10.1111/ctr.13752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuous-flow mechanical circulatory support (CF-MCS) is associated with impaired vascular function and increased risk of vasoplegia. One contributing factor to early graft failure (EGF) is severe vasoplegia. We tested the hypothesis that CF-MCS is associated with increased risk of EGF. METHODS Adult primary heart transplant recipients in the ISHLT Registry from 2005 to 2013 were stratified into three groups based on pre-transplant MCS: No MCS (n = 11 748), pulsatile (P)-MCS (n = 718), and CF-MCS (n = 3818). EGF was defined as death/retransplantation due to graft failure within 30 days after HT. Comparisons were made using descriptive statistics and associations. EGF was assessed with multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression. RESULTS The incidence of EGF within 30 days was similar between groups (No MCS 2.2%, P-MCS 3.3%, CF-MCS 2.1%, P = .10). Following multivariable adjustment, the risk of EGF was not statistically different for those with CF-MCS compared with P-MCS (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.46-1.21, P = .24). The risk of EGF was numerically, but not statistically significantly higher for CF-MCS compared with No MCS (HR 1.24, 95% CI 0.92-1.67, P = .16). CONCLUSION CF-MCS use was not associated with a statistically significant increased risk of EGF resulting in death or retransplantation in the first 30 days after transplant.
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Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for VADs in Ambulatory Life (REVIVAL): Rationale, design, baseline characteristics, and inclusion criteria performance. J Heart Lung Transplant 2019; 39:7-15. [PMID: 31679943 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2019.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2019] [Revised: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Improved understanding of the clinical course of ambulatory advanced chronic systolic heart failure may improve the provision of appropriate care and is central to the design of clinical trials in this population. METHODS Twenty-one implanting ventricular assist device (VAD) centers enrolled 400 subjects in the Registry Evaluation of Vital Information for VADs in Ambulatory Life (REVIVAL), a prospective, observational study in ambulatory, chronic, advanced systolic heart failure, designed to identify a cohort with an approximately 25% 1-year risk of the primary composite outcome of death, urgent transplant, or durable mechanical circulatory support. Inclusion criteria utilized only information collected during routine clinical care. Exclusion criteria identified patients with contraindications to VAD. Study inclusion required at least 1 of 10 high-risk criteria derived from established hospitalization and non-hospitalization markers of increased mortality risk. We evaluated the test performance characteristics of the high-risk criteria. RESULTS Data on 373 subjects evaluable for the primary composite outcome at the 1-year visit are presented. Baseline data were consistent with a less advanced cohort than Medical Arm for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support or Risk Assessment (MedaMACS) and Comparative Effectiveness of Left Ventricular Assist Device and Medical Management in Ambulatory Heart Failure Patients (ROADMAP). Freedom from the primary composite outcome was 75.9%. Non-hospitalization inclusion criteria identified 89% of patients with events. CONCLUSIONS Using routinely obtained clinical information for enrollment, REVIVAL successfully recruited an ambulatory chronic systolic heart failure cohort with an approximately 25% annual risk of the primary composite outcome. Information from this registry will be relevant to the planning of future trials of earlier VAD use and of other interventions in this population.
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Intramyocardial Injection of Mesenchymal Precursor Cells and Successful Temporary Weaning From Left Ventricular Assist Device Support in Patients With Advanced Heart Failure: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA 2019; 321:1176-1186. [PMID: 30912838 PMCID: PMC6439694 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2019.2341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Left ventricular assist device (LVAD) therapy improves myocardial function, but few patients recover sufficiently for explant, which has focused attention on stem cells to augment cardiac recovery. OBJECTIVE To assess efficacy and adverse effects of intramyocardial injections of mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs) during LVAD implant. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS A randomized phase 2 clinical trial involving patients with advanced heart failure, undergoing LVAD implant, at 19 North American centers (July 2015-August 2017). The 1-year follow-up ended August 2018. INTERVENTIONS Intramyocardial injections of 150 million allogeneic MPCs or cryoprotective medium as a sham treatment in a 2:1 ratio (n = 106 vs n = 53). MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES The primary efficacy end point was the proportion of successful temporary weans (of 3 planned assessments) from LVAD support within 6 months of randomization. This end point was assessed using a Bayesian analysis with a predefined threshold of a posterior probability of 80% to indicate success. The 1-year primary safety end point was the incidence of intervention-related adverse events (myocarditis, myocardial rupture, neoplasm, hypersensitivity reactions, and immune sensitization). Secondary end points included readmissions and adverse events at 6 months and 1-year survival. RESULTS Of 159 patients (mean age, 56 years; 11.3% women), 155 (97.5%) completed 1-year of follow-up. The posterior probability that MPCs increased the likelihood of successful weaning was 69%; below the predefined threshold for success. The mean proportion of successful temporary weaning from LVAD support over 6 months was 61% in the MPC group and 58% in the control group (rate ratio [RR], 1.08; 95% CI, 0.83-1.41; P = .55). No patient experienced a primary safety end point. Of 10 prespecified secondary end points reported, 9 did not reach statistical significance. One-year mortality was not significantly different between the MPC group and the control group (14.2% vs 15.1%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.89; 95%, CI, 0.38-2.11; P = .80). The rate of serious adverse events was not significantly different between groups (70.9 vs 78.7 per 100 patient-months; difference, -7.89; 95% CI, -39.95 to 24.17; P = .63) nor was the rate of readmissions (0.68 vs 0.75 per 100 patient-months; difference, -0.07; 95% CI, -0.41 to 0.27; P = .68). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE Among patients with advanced heart failure, intramyocardial injections of mesenchymal precursor cells, compared with injections of a cryoprotective medium as sham treatment, did not improve successful temporary weaning from left ventricular assist device support at 6 months. The findings do not support the use of intramyocardial mesenchymal stem cells to promote cardiac recovery as measured by temporary weaning from device support. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT02362646.
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Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators in Patients With a Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Device: An Analysis of the INTERMACS Registry. JACC-HEART FAILURE 2018; 5:916-926. [PMID: 29191299 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2017.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 08/18/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to determine if the presence of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICD) provided a mortality benefit during continuous-flow left ventricular assist device (LVAD) support. BACKGROUND An ICD decreases mortality in selected patients with advanced heart failure and have been associated with reduced mortality in patients with pulsatile LVAD. However, it is unclear whether that benefit extends to patients with a contemporary continuous-flow LVAD. METHODS Propensity score matching was used to generate a cohort of patients with similar baseline characteristics. The primary outcome was freedom from death during LVAD support. Secondary endpoints included freedom from unexpected death, likelihood of transplantation and recovery, and adverse events. RESULTS Among 16,384 eligible patients in the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support registry, 2,209 patients with an ICD and 2,209 patients without one had similar propensity scores and were included. The presence of an ICD was associated with an increased mortality risk (hazard ratio: 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.04 to 1.39; p = 0.013) and an increased risk of unexpected death during device support (HR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.71; p = 0.03). Patients with an ICD were more likely to undergo transplantation (HR: 1.16; 95% CI: 0.99 to 1.35; p = 0.06) and less likely to have LVAD explant for recovery (HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.29 to 0.98; p = 0.04). Patients with an ICD had a higher rate of treated ventricular arrhythmias (rate ratio: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.48; p = 0.001) and rehospitalization (rate ratio: 1.08; 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.12; p < 0.0001), but rates of hemorrhagic stroke were similar (rate ratio: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.81 to 1.26; p = 0.98). CONCLUSIONS Among patients with a continuous flow LVAD, the presence of an ICD was not associated with reduced mortality.
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Letter by Clerkin et al Regarding Article, "Importance of Routine Antihuman/Leukocyte Antibody Monitoring: De Novo Donor Specific Antibodies Are Associated With Rejection and Allograft Vasculopathy After Heart Transplantation". Circulation 2018; 137:1870-1871. [PMID: 29685936 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.117.032072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Serum exosomal protein profiling for the non-invasive detection of cardiac allograft rejection. J Heart Lung Transplant 2017; 37:409-417. [PMID: 28789823 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2017.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes are cell-derived circulating vesicles that play an important role in cell-cell communication. Exosomes are actively assembled and carry messenger RNAs, microRNAs and proteins. The "gold standard" for cardiac allograft surveillance is endomyocardial biopsy (EMB), an invasive technique with a distinct complication profile. The development of novel, non-invasive methods for the early diagnosis of allograft rejection is warranted. We hypothesized that the exosomal proteome is altered in acute rejection, allowing for a distinction between non-rejection and rejection episodes. METHODS Serum samples were collected from heart transplant (HTx) recipients with no rejection, acute cellular rejection (ACR) and antibody-mediated rejection (AMR). Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis of serum exosome was performed using a mass spectrometer (Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid). RESULTS Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed a clustering of 3 groups: (1) control and heart failure (HF); (2) HTx without rejection; and (3) ACR and AMR. A total of 45 proteins were identified that could distinguish between groups (q < 0.05). Comparison of serum exosomal proteins from control, HF and non-rejection HTx revealed 17 differentially expressed proteins in at least 1 group (q < 0.05). Finally, comparisons of non-rejection HTx, ACR and AMR serum exosomes revealed 15 differentially expressed proteins in at least 1 group (q < 0.05). Of these 15 proteins, 8 proteins are known to play a role in the immune response. Of note, the majority of proteins identified were associated with complement activation, adaptive immunity such as immunoglobulin components and coagulation. CONCLUSIONS Characterizing of circulating exosomal proteome in different cardiac disease states reveals unique protein expression patterns indicative of the respective pathologies. Our data suggest that HTx and allograft rejection alter the circulating exosomal protein content. Exosomal protein analysis could be a novel approach to detect and monitor acute transplant rejection and lead to the development of predictive and prognostic biomarkers.
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Recovery of Serum Cholesterol Predicts Survival After Left Ventricular Assist Device Implantation. Circ Heart Fail 2017; 9:CIRCHEARTFAILURE.115.002881. [PMID: 27623768 DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.115.002881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advanced systolic heart failure is associated with myocardial and systemic metabolic abnormalities, including low levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein. Low cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein have been associated with greater mortality in heart failure. Implantation of a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) reverses some of the metabolic derangements of advanced heart failure. METHODS AND RESULTS A cohort was retrospectively assembled from 2 high-volume implantation centers, totaling 295 continuous-flow LVAD recipients with ≥2 cholesterol values available. The cohort was predominantly bridge-to-transplantation (67%), with median age of 59 years and 49% ischemic heart failure cause. Total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and triglyceride levels all significantly increased after LVAD implantation (median values from implantation to 3 months post implantation 125-150 mg/dL, 67-85 mg/dL, 32-42 mg/dL, and 97-126 mg/dL, respectively). On Cox proportional hazards modeling, patients achieving recovery of total cholesterol levels, defined as a median or greater change from pre implantation to 3 months post-LVAD implantation, had significantly better unadjusted survival (hazard ratio, 0.445; 95% confidence interval, 0.212-0.932) and adjusted survival (hazard ratio, 0.241; 95% confidence interval, 0.092-0.628) than those without cholesterol recovery after LVAD implantation. The continuous variable of total cholesterol at 3 months post implantation and the cholesterol increase from pre implantation to 3 months were also both significantly associated with survival during LVAD support. CONCLUSIONS Initiation of continuous-flow LVAD support was associated with significant recovery of all 4 lipid variables. Patients with a greater increase in total cholesterol by 3 months post implantation had superior survival during LVAD support.
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Myocardial Recovery in Patients Receiving Contemporary Left Ventricular Assist Devices: Results From the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS). Circ Heart Fail 2017; 9:CIRCHEARTFAILURE.116.003157. [PMID: 27402861 DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.116.003157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Time course and predictors of myocardial recovery on contemporary left ventricular assist device support are poorly defined because of limited number of recovery patients at any implanting center. This study sought to investigate myocardial recovery using multicenter data from the Interagency Registry for Mechanically Assisted Circulatory Support (INTERMACS). METHODS AND RESULTS Thirteen thousand four hundred fifty-four adult patients were studied. Device explant rates for myocardial recovery were 0.9% at 1-year, 1.9% at 2-year, and 3.1% at 3-year follow-up. Independent predictors of device explantation for recovery were age <50 years (odds ratio [OR] 2.5), nonischemic etiology (OR 5.4), time since initial diagnosis <2 years (OR 3.4), suboptimal heart failure therapy before implant (OR 2.2), left ventricular end-diastolic diameter <6.5 cm (OR 1.7), pulmonary systolic artery pressure <50 mm Hg (OR 2.0), blood urea nitrogen <30 mg/dL (OR 3.3), and axial-flow device (OR 7.6). Patients with myocarditis (7.7%), postpartum cardiomyopathy (4.4%), and adriamycin-induced cardiomyopathy (4.1%) had highest rates of device explantation for recovery. Use of neurohormonal blockers on left ventricular assist device support was significantly higher in patients who were explanted for recovery. Importantly, 9% of all left ventricular assist device patients who were not explanted for recovery have demonstrated substantial improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction (partial recovery) and had remarkable overlap in clinical characteristic profile compared with patients who were explanted for recovery (complete recovery). Complete and partial recovery rates have declined in parallel with recent changes observed in device indications and technology. CONCLUSIONS Myocardial recovery is a spectrum of improvement rather than a binary clinical end point. One in every 10 left ventricular assist device patients demonstrates partial or complete myocardial recovery and should be targeted for functional assessment and optimization.
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Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Patients Supported With a Left Ventricular Assist Device: An Analysis of the UNOS Database (United Network for Organ Sharing). Circ Heart Fail 2017; 9:CIRCHEARTFAILURE.116.003215. [PMID: 27758810 DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.116.003215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low socioeconomic status (SES) is a known risk factor for heart failure, mortality among those with heart failure, and poor post heart transplant (HT) outcomes. This study sought to determine whether SES is associated with decreased waitlist survival while on left ventricular assist device (LVADs) support and after HT. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 3361 adult patients bridged to primary HT with an LVAD between May 2004 and April 2014 were identified in the UNOS database (United Network for Organ Sharing). SES was measured using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality SES index using data from the 2014 American Community Survey. In the study cohort, SES did not have an association with the combined end point of death or delisting on LVAD support (P=0.30). In a cause-specific unadjusted model, those in the top (hazard ratio, 1.55; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-2.11; P=0.005) and second greatest SES quartile (hazard ratio 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.10-2.04; P=0.01) had an increased risk of death on device support compared with the lowest SES quartile. Adjusting for clinical risk factors mitigated the increased risk. There was no association between SES and complications. Post-HT survival, both crude and adjusted, was decreased for patients in the lowest quartile of SES index compared with all other SES quartiles. CONCLUSIONS Freedom from waitlist death or delisting was not affected by SES. Patients with a higher SES had an increased unadjusted risk of waitlist mortality during LVAD support, which was mitigated by adjusting for increased comorbid conditions. Low SES was associated with worse post-HT outcomes. Further study is needed to confirm and understand a differential effect of SES on post-transplant outcomes that was not seen during LVAD support before HT.
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The role of implantable cardioverter defibrillators in patients bridged to transplantation with a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device: A propensity score matched analysis. J Heart Lung Transplant 2017; 36:633-639. [PMID: 28089072 PMCID: PMC5446301 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) provide a significant mortality benefit for appropriately selected patients with advanced heart failure. ICDs are associated with a mortality benefit when used in patients with a pulsatile left ventricular assist device (LVAD). It is unclear whether patients with a continuous-flow LVAD (CF-LVAD) derive the same benefit. We sought to determine if the presence of an ICD provided a mortality benefit during CF-LVAD support as a bridge to transplantation. METHODS Patients were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) registry who underwent LVAD implantation as bridge to transplantation between May 2004 and April 2014, with follow-up through June 2014. Primary outcome was freedom from death while on CF-LVAD support with adjustment for complications requiring UNOS listing status upgrade. Secondary end-points included freedom from delisting while on CF-LVAD support and incidence of transplantation. RESULTS The study cohort comprised 2,990 patients, and propensity score matching identified 1,012 patients with similar propensity scores. There was no difference in survival during device support between patients with and without an ICD (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.66-2.17; p = 0.55). Adjusting for device complications requiring a UNOS listing status upgrade had minimal influence (HR = 1.11; 95% CI, 0.60-2.05; p = 0.74). There was no increased risk of delisting owing to being too sick for patients with an ICD (HR = 1.08; 95% CI, 0.63-1.86; p = 0.78). Likewise, the probability of transplantation was similar (HR = 1.05; 95% CI, 0.87-1.27; p = 0.62). CONCLUSIONS Among patients bridged to transplantation with a CF-LVAD, the presence of an ICD did not reduce mortality.
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Ventricular assist device elicits serum natural IgG that correlates with the development of primary graft dysfunction following heart transplantation. J Heart Lung Transplant 2017; 36:862-870. [PMID: 28431981 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2017.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2016] [Revised: 02/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-transplant sensitization is a limiting factor in solid-organ transplantation. In heart transplants, ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation has been associated with sensitization to human leukocyte antigens (HLA). The effect of VAD on non-HLA antibodies is unclear. We have previously shown that polyreactive natural antibodies (Nabs) contribute to pre-sensitization in kidney allograft recipients. Here we assessed generation of Nabs after VAD implantation in pre-transplant sera and examined their contribution to cardiac allograft outcome. METHODS IgM and IgG Nabs were tested in pre-transplant serum samples collected from 206 orthotopic heart transplant recipients, including 128 patients with VAD (VAD patients) and 78 patients without VAD (no-VAD patients). Nabs were assessed by testing serum reactivity to apoptotic cells by flow cytometry and to the generic oxidized epitope, malondialdehyde, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS No difference was observed in serum levels of IgM Nabs between VAD and no-VAD patients. However, serum IgG Nabs levels were significantly increased in VAD compared with no-VAD patients. This increase was likely due to the presence of the VAD, as revealed by lower serum IgG Nabs levels before implantation. Elevated pre-transplant IgG Nabs level was associated with development of primary graft dysfunction (PGD). CONCLUSIONS Our study demonstrates that VAD support elicits IgG Nabs reactive to apoptotic cells and oxidized epitopes. These findings further support broad and non-specific B-cell activation by VAD, resulting in IgG sensitization. Moreover, the association of serum IgG Nabs levels with development of PGD suggests a possible role for these antibodies in the inflammatory reaction accompanying this complication.
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Atrial Fibrillation in Patients With Left Ventricular Assist Devices. JACC Clin Electrophysiol 2016; 2:793-798. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jacep.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Preoperative Proteinuria and Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate Predicts Renal Replacement Therapy in Patients Supported With Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices. Circ Heart Fail 2016; 9:CIRCHEARTFAILURE.115.002897. [DOI: 10.1161/circheartfailure.115.002897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background—
Renal failure requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) has detrimental effects on quality of life and survival of patients with continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices (CF-LVADs). Current guidelines do not offer a decision-making algorithm for CF-LVAD candidates with poor baseline renal function. Objective of this study was to identify risk factors associated with RRT after CF-LVAD implantation.
Methods and Results—
Three hundred and eighty-nine consecutive patients underwent contemporary CF-LVAD implantation at the Columbia University Medical Center between January 2004 and August 2015. Baseline demographics, comorbid conditions, clinical risk scores, and renal function were analyzed in patients with or without RRT after CF-LVAD implantation. Time-dependent receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis was performed to define optimal cutoffs for continuous risk factors. Forty-four patients (11.6%) required RRT during a median follow-up of 9.9 months. Patients requiring RRT had significantly worse renal function, lower hemoglobin, and increased proteinuria at baseline. Low estimated glomerular filtration rate (<40 mL/min/1.73 m
2
) and proteinuria (urine protein to creatinine ratio ≥0.55 mg/mg) were significant predictors of RRT after CF-LVAD support. Dipstick proteinuria was also a significant predictor of RRT after CF-LVAD implantation. Patients with both low estimated glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria had highest risk of RRT (63.6%) compared with those with either low estimated glomerular filtration rate or proteinuria (18.7%) and those with neither of these risk factors (2.7%) at 1-year follow-up (log-rank
P
<0.001).
Conclusions—
Estimated glomerular filtration rate and proteinuria are predictors RRT after CF-LVAD implantation and should be routinely assessed in CF-LVAD candidates to guide decision making.
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The NHLBI REVIVE-IT study: Understanding its discontinuation in the context of current left ventricular assist device therapy. J Heart Lung Transplant 2016; 35:1277-1283. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
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The Impact of Obesity on Patients Bridged to Transplantation With Continuous-Flow Left Ventricular Assist Devices. JACC-HEART FAILURE 2016; 4:761-768. [PMID: 27614942 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2016.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to determine if obese patients had worse post-left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation outcomes and if the implantation of an LVAD allowed for weight loss. BACKGROUND Obesity is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease including heart failure. Obese heart failure patients have better outcomes than those with normal weight; however, obese patients have worse outcomes after heart transplantation. METHODS Patients were identified in the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database that underwent LVAD implantation as bridge to transplantation from May 2004 and April 2014, with follow-up through June 2014. Patients were grouped according to body mass index (BMI) based on the World Health Organization classification. RESULTS Among 3,856 patients, the risk of death or delisting was not significantly different between BMI groups (p = 0.347). There was no increased risk of death (p = 0.234) or delisting (p = 0.918). The risk of complication requiring UNOS status upgrade was increased for those with class II obesity or greater (hazard ratio: 1.48; p = 0.004), driven by increased infection and thromboembolism. Obese patients had worse post-transplantation outcomes. Weight loss substantial enough to decrease BMI group was achieved by a small proportion of patients listed with class I obesity or greater (9.6% to 15.5%). CONCLUSIONS Patients with obesity had similar freedom from death or delisting while on LVAD support. However, class II obese or greater patients had an increased risk of complications requiring UNOS status upgrade compared with those with normal BMI during LVAD support and decreased post-transplantation survival. Weight loss on device therapy was possible, but uncommon. Careful consideration is needed when a bridge to weight loss strategy is proposed.
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Abstract
Prevalence of heart failure is increasing, especially in the elderly population. Noncardiac comorbidities complicate heart failure care and are increasingly common in elderly patients with reduced or preserved ejection fraction heart failure, owing to prolongation of patient's lives by advances in chronic heart failure (CHF) management. Common comorbidities include respiratory disease, renal dysfunction, anemia, arthritis, obesity, diabetes mellitus, cognitive dysfunction, and depression. These conditions contribute to the progression of the disease and may alter the response to treatment, partly as polypharmacy is inevitable in these patients. Cardiologists and other physicians caring for patients with CHF need to be vigilant to comorbid conditions that complicate the care of these patients. There is now more guidance on management of noncardiac comorbidities in heart failure, and this article contains a comprehensive review of the most recent updates on management of noncardiac comorbidities in CHF.
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The effect of timing and graft dysfunction on survival and cardiac allograft vasculopathy in antibody-mediated rejection. J Heart Lung Transplant 2016; 35:1059-66. [PMID: 27423693 DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2016.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 03/21/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibody-mediated rejection (AMR) has been associated with increased death and cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV). Early studies suggested that late AMR was rarely associated with graft dysfunction, whereas recent reports have demonstrated an association with increased mortality. We investigated the timing of AMR and its association with graft dysfunction, death, and CAV. METHODS This retrospective cohort study identified all adult orthotopic heart transplant (OHT) recipients (N = 689) at Columbia University Medical Center from 2004 to 2013. There were 68 primary cases of AMR, which were stratified by early (< 1 year post-OHT) or late (> 1 year post-OHT) AMR. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and modeling was performed with multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards regression. RESULTS From January 1, 2004, through October 1, 2015, early AMR (median 23 days post-OHT) occurred in 43 patients and late AMR (median 1,084 days post-OHT) occurred in 25. Graft dysfunction was less common with early compared with late AMR (25.6% vs 56%, p = 0.01). Patients with late AMR had decreased post-AMR survival compared with early AMR (1 year: 80% vs 93%, 5 years: 51% vs 73%, p < 0.05). When stratified by graft dysfunction, only those with late AMR and graft dysfunction had worse survival (30 days: 79%, 1 year: 64%, 5 years: 36%; p < 0.006). The association remained irrespective of age, sex, donor-specific antibodies, left ventricular assist device use, reason for OHT, and recovery of graft function. Similarly, those with late AMR and graft dysfunction had accelerated development of de novo CAV (50% at 1 year; hazard ratio, 5.42; p = 0.009), whereas all other groups were all similar to the general transplant population. CONCLUSIONS Late AMR is frequently associated with graft dysfunction. When graft dysfunction is present in late AMR, there is an early and sustained increased risk of death and rapid development of de novo CAV despite aggressive treatment.
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Analysis of Skeletal Muscle Torque Capacity and Circulating Ceramides in Patients with Advanced Heart Failure. J Card Fail 2016; 22:347-55. [PMID: 26879888 DOI: 10.1016/j.cardfail.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heart failure (HF)-related exercise intolerance is thought to be perpetuated by peripheral skeletal muscle functional, structural, and metabolic abnormalities. We analyzed specific dynamics of muscle contraction in patients with HF compared with healthy, sedentary controls. METHODS Isometric and isokinetic muscle parameters were measured in the dominant upper and lower limbs of 45 HF patients and 15 healthy age-matched controls. Measurements included peak torque normalized to body weight, work normalized to body weight, power, time to peak torque, and acceleration and deceleration to maximum strength times. Body morphometry (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry scan) and circulating fatty acids and ceramides (lipodomics) were analyzed in a subset of subjects (18 HF and 9 controls). RESULTS Extension and flexion time-to-peak torque was longer in the lower limbs of HF patients. Furthermore, acceleration and deceleration times in the lower limbs were also prolonged in HF subjects. HF subjects had increased adiposity and decreased lean muscle mass compared with controls. Decreased circulating unsaturated fatty acids and increased ceramides were found in subjects with HF. CONCLUSIONS Delayed torque development suggests skeletal muscle impairments that may reflect abnormal neuromuscular functional coupling. These impairments may be further compounded by increased adiposity and inflammation associated with increased ceramides.
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Outcomes of contemporary mechanical circulatory support device configurations in patients with severe biventricular failure. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2016; 151:530-5.e2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2015.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2015] [Revised: 09/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/08/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Incidence and predictors of myocardial recovery on long-term left ventricular assist device support: Results from the United Network for Organ Sharing database. J Heart Lung Transplant 2015; 34:1624-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2015.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 08/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Outcomes of Multiple Listing for Adult Heart Transplantation in the United States: Analysis of OPTN Data From 2000 to 2013. JACC-HEART FAILURE 2015; 3:933-41. [PMID: 26577617 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchf.2015.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study sought to assess the association of multiple listing with waitlist outcomes and post-heart transplant (HT) survival. BACKGROUND HT candidates in the United States may register at multiple centers. Not all candidates have the resources and mobility needed for multiple listing; thus this policy may advantage wealthier and less sick patients. METHODS We identified 33,928 adult candidates for a first single-organ HT between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2013 in the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database. RESULTS We identified 679 multiple-listed (ML) candidates (2.0%) who were younger (median age, 53 years [interquartile range (IQR): 43 to 60 years] vs. 55 years [IQR: 45 to 61 years]; p < 0.0001), more often white (76.4% vs. 70.7%; p = 0.0010) and privately insured (65.5% vs. 56.3%; p < 0.0001), and lived in zip codes with higher median incomes (US$90,153 [IQR: US$25,471 to US$253,831] vs. US$68,986 [IQR: US$19,471 to US$219,702]; p = 0.0015). Likelihood of ML increased with the primary center's median waiting time. ML candidates had lower initial priority (39.0% 1A or 1B vs. 55.1%; p < 0.0001) and predicted 90-day waitlist mortality (2.9% [IQR: 2.3% to 4.7%] vs. 3.6% [IQR: 2.3% to 6.0]%; p < 0.0001), but were frequently upgraded at secondary centers (58.2% 1A/1B; p < 0.0001 vs. ML primary listing). ML candidates had a higher HT rate (74.4% vs. 70.2%; p = 0.0196) and lower waitlist mortality (8.1% vs. 12.2%; p = 0.0011). Compared with a propensity-matched cohort, the relative ML HT rate was 3.02 (95% confidence interval: 2.59 to 3.52; p < 0.0001). There were no post-HT survival differences. CONCLUSIONS Multiple listing is a rational response to organ shortage but may advantage patients with the means to participate rather than the most medically needy. The multiple-listing policy should be overturned.
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Comparison of early versus delayed timing of left ventricular assist device implantation as a bridge-to-transplantation: An analysis of the UNOS dataset. Int J Cardiol 2015; 203:929-935. [PMID: 26618255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Placement of left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) as a bridge-to-heart transplantation (HTx) has rapidly expanded due to organ donor shortage. However, the timing of LVAD implantation is variable and it remains unclear if earlier implantation improves survival. METHODS We analyzed 14,187 adult candidates from the United Network of Organ Sharing database. Patients were classified by 3 treatment strategies including patients medically treated alone (MED, n=11,009), patients on LVAD support at listing (Early-LVAD, n=1588) and patients undergoing LVAD placement while awaiting HTx (Delayed-LVAD, n=1590). Likelihood of HTx and event-free survival were assessed in patients subcategorized by clinical strategies and UNOS status at listing. RESULTS The device support strategy, despite the timing of placement, was not associated with increased likelihood of HTx compared to MED group. However, both LVAD implantation strategies showed better survival compared to MED group (Early-LVAD: HR 0.811 and 0.633, 95% CI 0.668-0.984 and 0.507-0.789, for 1A and 1B; p=0.034 and p<0.001, Delayed-LVAD: HR 0.553 and 0.696, 95% CI 0.415-0.736 and 0.571-0.847, for 1A and 1B; both p<0.001, respectively). Furthermore, there was no significant difference in survival between these LVAD implantation strategies in patients listed as 1B (p=0.500), although Early-LVAD implantation showed worse survival in patients listed as 1A (HR 1.467, 95% CI 1.076-2.000; p=0.015). CONCLUSION LVAD support strategies offer a safe bridge-to-HTx. Those candidates who receive urgent upfront LVAD implantation for HTx, and improve to 1B status, would achieve competitive survival with those who receive elective LVAD implantation.
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Durability and clinical impact of tricuspid valve procedures in patients receiving a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device. J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 2015; 151:520-7.e1. [PMID: 26806510 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcvs.2015.09.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2015] [Revised: 08/29/2015] [Accepted: 09/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Patients evaluated for a continuous-flow left ventricular assist device frequently present with severe right ventricular dysfunction with tricuspid regurgitation. Long-term outcomes of concurrent tricuspid valve procedures in continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation are unclear. METHODS From May 2004 to December 2013, 336 patients received continuous-flow left ventricular assist devices. Among these, 8 patients with prior tricuspid valve procedures were excluded. At continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation, 76 patients underwent tricuspid valve procedures (group A), including 68 repairs and 8 replacements. The remaining 252 patients did not receive concurrent tricuspid valve procedures (group B). RESULTS Preoperatively, group A had higher central venous pressure/pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (P = .032), total bilirubin (P = .009), and percentage of moderate or greater tricuspid regurgitation (98.7% vs 18.8%; P < .001). In group A, cardiopulmonary bypass time (136 ± 52.0 minutes vs 83.9 ± 38.8 minutes; P < .001), intraoperative platelet use (13.6 ± 6.70 units vs 11.7 ± 5.92 units; P = .042), and bleeding requiring reoperation (27.5% vs 16.7%; P = .046) were significantly increased. In-hospital mortality was similar (10.5% vs 6.4%; P = .22). On-device 2-year survival was 73.9% in group A and 74.2% in group B (P = .24). At 2 years, mean cumulative readmissions for right heart failure was 0.21 in group A and 0.27 in group B (P = .95). A generalized linear mixed-effects model showed that tricuspid valve procedures are protective for developing future significant tricuspid regurgitation (odds ratio, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.19-0.76; P = .006). CONCLUSIONS Concomitant tricuspid valve procedures at continuous-flow left ventricular assist device implantation can be performed safely and are protective against worsening tricuspid regurgitation during the first 2 years of support.
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Increased coronary lipid accumulation in heart transplant recipients with prior high-grade cellular rejection: novel insights from near-infrared spectroscopy. Int J Cardiovasc Imaging 2015; 32:225-234. [PMID: 26408106 DOI: 10.1007/s10554-015-0777-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac allograft vasculopathy is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among patients after heart transplantation. We sought to assess the amount of lipid accumulation in the coronary arteries of transplant patients according to rejection grade. Overall, 39 consecutive heart transplant recipients undergoing annual routine surveillance coronary angiography underwent near-infrared spectroscopy and intravascular ultrasound imaging of 1 coronary artery. Rejection history was graded according to the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) classification as none/mild/moderate-grade rejection (ISHLT 0, 1A/1B, or 2) compared to high-grade rejection (≥3A). Patients with prior history of high-grade rejection had larger plaque burden in the distal coronary segments [45.7 % (25.5-63.7) vs 25.1 % (19.9-37.8), p = 0.02] and a higher maximum lipid core burden index in any 4-mm long segment (maxLCBI(4mm)) [243 (91-400) vs 41 (1-170), p = 0.016] as compared with patients with prior history of none/mild/moderate-grade rejection. By multivariable linear regression analysis, prior history of high-grade rejection was an independent predictor for maxLCBI(4mm). A maxLCBI(4mm) >200 distinguished prior history of high-grade from none/mild/moderate rejection with a sensitivity of 61.5 % and specificity of 84.6 %. The current study demonstrates that the coronary arteries of post heart-transplant patients with a prior history of high-grade cellular rejection have increasing amounts of lipid-rich plaque. MaxLCBI(4mm) >200 might differentiate patients with previous high-grade cellular rejection from heart transplant recipients with none/mild/moderate-grade rejection.
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Abstract
Peak exercise performance in healthy man is limited not only by pulmonary or skeletal muscle function but also by cardiac function. Thus, abnormalities in cardiac function will have a major impact on exercise performance. Many cardiac diseases affect exercise performance and indeed for some cardiac conditions such as atherosclerotic heart disease, exercise testing is frequently used not only to measure functional capacity but also to make a diagnosis of heart disease, evaluate the efficacy of treatment, and predict prognosis. Early in the course of cardiac diseases, exercise performance will be minimally affected but with disease progression impairment in exercise capacity will become apparent. Ejection fraction, that is, the percent of blood volume ejected with each cardiac cycle is often used as a measure of cardiac performance but frequently there is a dissociation between the ejection fraction and exercise capacity in patients with heart disease. How abnormalities in cardiac function impacts the muscles, vasculature, and lungs to impact exercise performance will here be reviewed. The focus of this work will be on patients with systolic heart failure as the incidence and prevalence of heart failure is reaching epidemic proportions and heart failure is the end result of many other chronic cardiac diseases. The prognostic role of exercise and benefits of exercise training will also be discussed.
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